Relocating to Hawaii

With Pets

If you’re thinking of or planning on relocating to Hawaii and you have pets, it’s time to start planning! Relocating with pets is not the same for Hawaii as for other states. Because Hawaii is a rabies-free state, it requires a little bit more preparation and quite a bit of paperwork. Here’s what you need to know before you move to Hawaii with a pet.

Reserving a Veterinarian

Prior to your arrival, it's a good idea to do some research on local veterinarians. You'll need to setup an appointment shortly after arrival to have your pet inspected. The Quarantine station will require verification that you have set up this appointment when they review your documents, so here's a few vets in the area to help you get started.

Direct Airport Release

If you plan on picking your pet up directly at the airport after you arrive, then you’ll want to ensure your pet qualifies for Direct Airport Release. If you are unable to pick your pet up right away, your pet will be entered into the 5-Day-or-Less Program.

5-Days-or-Less Program

If your pet isn’t picked up the day of your arrival, if your pet’s flight arrives outside of the animal inspection hours, or if you need somewhere to house your pet for a few days while you get settled, then your pet will qualify for the 5-Days-or-Less Program, in which pets are kept at a quarantine facility for a $224 flat-rate fee for up to 5 days.

Full 120 Day Quarantine

If you don’t or are unable to prepare for your pet's move in advance and your pet does not meet all the requirements of Direct Airport Release, then your pet will automatically undergo a full 120 day (4 month) quarantine at a Hawaii animal facility at a rate of $14.30/day. Unless you want to pay a sizable fee and spend a lot of time away from your pet, or unless you have no other option, it’s recommended that you take some time to prepare!

Qualifying for Direct Airport Release/5-Days-or-Less

Rabies Vaccinations

You pet must have had at least 2 rabies vaccinations, at least 30 days apart, with the last vaccination no more than 12 months before arrival in Hawaii. You will need to present original copies of both rabies vaccination certificates.

Microchipping

You pet must be microchipped, and the microchip must be able to be used to identify your pet.

OIE-FAVN Rabies Blood Test

You must send a blood sample to one of two approved laboratories if have your pet’s blood tested for rabies at least 3 weeks after their last vaccine. This must be between 36 months and 120 days before your arrival. If you don’t wait the required 120 days between the blood test and your move, your pet won’t qualify for Direct Airport Release and will be entered into quarantine.

Required Documentation

An original health certificate dated within 14 days of your arrival (with rabies information, pet’s microchip number, breed information, an original vet signature, and documentation on a recent tick treatment containing Fipronil). Be sure to keep this on you when traveling as well, some airlines will require a current certificate from within 10 days.